Mountain biking is fast becoming a top outdoor sport in Arkansas. With towns like Bentonville making an international name for themselves with a flurry of trail building. It’s really no surprise, as the rugged terrain, attention to healthy lifestyle, and moderate climate of Northwest Arkansas all appeal to outdoor adventurers.  If you’re visiting The Natural State soon, or you’re a local looking for a new pastime, here are some of the absolute best Arkansas mountain biking trails to try out this year! 

Did You Know? 

A fun fact that even most Arkansans don’t realize is that Bentonville is actually known as “The Mountain Biking Capital of the World.” With more than 130 miles of trails in the city, connecting to a whopping 400+ miles in the surrounding area, Bentonville has a trail for every level of rider!

Top Arkansas Mountain Biking Shops

  1. Phat Tire Bike Shop – Bentonville
  • Address: 125 W Central Ave, Bentonville, AR 72712
  • Phone: (479) 268-3393
  • Website: www.phattirebikeshop.com
  • Highlights: Expert staff, high-quality rentals, and a central location near Bentonville’s famous trails like Slaughter Pen.
  1. The Bike Route – Fayetteville
  • Address: 3660 N Front St, Ste 2Fayetteville, AR 72703
  • Phone: (479) 966-4050
  • Website: https://www.incycle.com/pages/retailer/the-bike-route
  • Highlights: Friendly customer service, a wide range of bikes for all skill levels, and close proximity to the Razorback Greenway.
  1.  Rock Town River Outfitters – Little Rock
  • Address:
    • Downtown Bike Shop: 400 President Clinton Ave, Little Rock, AR 72201
    • River Mountain Boathouse: 4612 River Mountain Rd, Little Rock, AR 72223
  • Phone: (501) 831-0548
  • Website: https://rocktownriveroutfitters.com/bicycle/mountain-bike-rentals/
  • Highlights: Offers a variety of mountain bike rentals suitable for exploring local trails. They provide flexible rental durations and have multiple locations for convenience.

Top Arkansas Mountain Biking Trails by Region

a welcome sign to slaughterton pen trail, one of the most famous Arkansas mountain biking trails

Arkansas has two dominant mountain ranges, the Boston Mountain Range, part of the great Ozark Mountains, and the Ouachita Mountains. These are located in the Northwest, Central, and Southwest portions of the state. By default, most of the best hiking and biking trails are located in these mountainous regions. 

Top Mountain Biking Trails in Northwest Arkansas

From epic overlooks and hiking trails to highend camping sites, world-class art museums to fun ale trails, the Northwest corner of the state is not only stunningly beautiful, but one of the best places for visitors to land. Here are a few of the best NW Arkansas mountain biking trails.

For more NWA trails, check out “Family-Friendly Trails for Mountain Biking in Bentonville, Arkansas

1. Slaughter Pen Trails – Bentonville

  • Address: 203 NE 3rd St, Bentonville, AR 72712 (Parking lot at Compton Gardens)
  • Trail Details:
    • Length: 40+ miles of interconnected trails.
    • Difficulty: Beginner to advanced.
    • Key Highlights:
      • All-American Trail: A smooth, green single-track trail with fun rollers and berms that meanders through scenic forested areas.
      • Medieval Loop: A blue single-track, downhill only with technical rock gardens, steep descents, and wooden features for advanced riders.
      • The Castle Climb: A 69-foot, blue single-track uphill cllimb.
      • Unique features include art installations along the trails and wooden flow features like the “Slaughter Pen Hollow Bridge.” These are probably the most famous Arkansas mountain biking trails.
    • Best For: Riders seeking a variety of terrains, from easy-flowing trails to challenging technical features.
    • Nearby Attractions: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and The Momentary, an innovative contemporary art space with live music and food festivals.

2. Coler Mountain Bike Preserve – Bentonville

  • Address: 11803 Peach Orchard Rd, Bentonville, AR 72712
  • Trail Details:
    • Length: 17 miles of trails.
    • Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced.
    • Key Highlights:
      • Cease and Desist: A gravity-fed Black Diamond downhill trail with steep drops, large jumps, and wooden berms.
      • Rock Solid Trail: A Double Black Diamond technical downhill that offers rock gardens and scenic overlook as well as rock gap jumps, and rock armored berms
      • Rest stops with hammocks and Airship Coffee perched in the middle of the forest provide a one-of-a-kind trail experience.
    • Best For: Thrill-seekers and advanced riders looking for unique downhill runs and well-maintained trails.
    • Nearby Attractions: Bentonville’s vibrant food scene, including gourmet comfort food at Tusk & Trotter and tasty brunch from The Buttered Biscuit!

3. Hobbs State Park Monument Trails – Rogers

  • Address: 20201 E Hwy 12, Rogers, AR 72756 (Visitor Center parking lot)
  • Trail Details:
    • Length: 36 miles of trails.
    • Difficulty: Beginner to expert.
    • Key Highlights:
      • Karst Trail: A 7.6 -mile beginner trail with gentle climbs and views of limestone formations and the lake.
      • War Eagle Valley loop: A challenging 4-mile trail. It’s rated a Black Diamond, but most riders agree it should be a blue.
      • The trails are known for their pristine condition, scenic views of Beaver Lake, and architectural features like suspension bridges and wooden boardwalks.
    • Best For: Nature enthusiasts and experienced riders who enjoy a mix of technical challenges and scenic beauty.
    • Nearby Attractions: War Eagle Mill, a historic working gristmill, and Beaver Lake, perfect for fishing or kayaking. Also, Hobbs State Park is the largest in Arkansas, so plan to stay a while! Check out our guide to the park for some excellent ideas!

4. Back 40 Trails – Bella Vista

  • Address: Blowing Springs Park, 948 Blowing Spring Rd, Bella Vista, AR 72714
  • Trail Details:
    • Length: 40 miles of singletrack trails.
    • Difficulty: Beginner to intermediate.
    • Key Highlights:
      • Rago Section: Offers technical rock features and challenging climbs for intermediate riders, newly transformed into a Black Diamond single-track..
      • Blowing Springs Loop: A scenic, beginner-friendly trail that passes by waterfalls and natural springs, rated blue due to roots and technical rock sections.
      • Flo Ride: 2.7-mile section of blue-rated flow with rollers, berms, and rock gardens.
    • Best For: Riders who enjoy long, scenic rides with moderate technical challenges.
    • Nearby Attractions: The serene Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel, built with steel and glass, is a must-see architectural marvel in the midst of the forest.

5. Lake Leatherwood Gravity Trails – Eureka Springs

  • Address: 1303 Co Rd 204, Eureka Springs, AR 72632 (Lake Leatherwood City Park parking lot)
  • Trail Details:
    • Length: 15 miles of trails.
    • Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced.
    • Key Highlights:
      • Beacham Trail: A 2-mile fast Black Diamond trail with varied terrain, short grades, and multiple creek crossings.
      • Downhill 5 (DH5): Blue single-track with high speed and large flowy berms.
      • Shuttle service makes these trails accessible for multiple downhill runs.
      • The park also includes the 85-acre Lake Leatherwood, perfect for a post-ride swim or paddle.
    • Best For: Intermediate to advanced riders seeking adrenaline-pumping downhill trails.
    • Nearby Attractions: The quirky charm of downtown Eureka Springs, the Thorncrown Chapel, and Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge.

Central Arkansas Mountain Biking Trails

6. Burns Park Mountain Bike Trails – North Little Rock

  • Address: 4101 Arlene Laman Dr, North Little Rock, AR 72118 (Trailhead near Soccer Complex)
  • Trail Details:
    • Length: 6 miles of trails.
    • Difficulty: Beginner to intermediate.
    • Key Highlights:
      • White Loop: A short, beginner-friendly loop featuring smooth singletrack, gradual climbs, and minimal technical challenges, ideal for new riders.
      • Red Loop: A 1.6-mile intermediate trail with rocky sections, moderate climbs, and switchbacks that keep riders engaged.
      • The trail system is well-marked and winds through shaded forested areas with occasional views of the Arkansas River.
    • Best For: Beginners building skills and intermediate riders seeking a moderately challenging ride.
    • Nearby Attractions: The Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum, Little Rock River Market, and the Big Dam Bridge are short drives away.

7. Camp Robinson Trails – North Little Rock

  • Address: 8900 E Maryland Ave, North Little Rock, AR 72120 (Camp Robinson gate; riders must obtain a recreational pass)
  • Trail Details:
    • Length: 40+ miles of trails.
    • Difficulty: Beginner to advanced.
    • Key Highlights:
      • One of the largest trail systems in the state, featuring a variety of loops that cater to all skill levels.
      • Ball of Nails: A 2-,mile Black Diamond single track with 222-foot climb.
      • Port-A-Potty: 3.8-mile green with tight turns, rock gardens, and stream crossing.
      • Wildlife sightings are common, with deer, wild turkeys, and bird species often spotted along the trails.
    • Best For: Riders of all skill levels looking for an extensive and diverse trail system.
    • Nearby Attractions: The nearby Old Mill, a historic site featured in Gone with the Wind, and Downtown Argenta, a hub for dining and art galleries.

8. Pinnacle Mountain State Park Trails – Little Rock

  • Address: 11901 Pinnacle Valley Rd, Little Rock, AR 72223
  • Trail Details:
    • Length: 13 miles of trails, including technical singletrack loops.
    • Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced.
    • Key Highlights:
      • Jackfork Trail: A 4.8-mile loop with tight turns, rocky terrain, and steep climbs, ideal for experienced riders.
      • Turkey Tracks: A shorter, dark blue with black slide routes and rock gardens, downhill only.
      • The trails feature rugged landscapes, pine forests, and stunning views of Pinnacle Mountain.
      • Frequent elevation changes make these trails a great workout for endurance riders.
    • Best For: Experienced riders who enjoy technical terrain and natural beauty.
    • Nearby Attractions: Hike to the summit of Pinnacle Mountain for panoramic views of the Arkansas River Valley, or visit Two Rivers Park for a leisurely ride along the Arkansas River Trail.

9. Mount Nebo Monument Trails

  • Address: Mount Nebo State Park, 16728 West State Highway 155, Dardanelle, AR 72834
  • Trail Details:
    • Length: 20 miles of trails interconnected throughout Mount Nebo State Park.
    • Difficulty: Beginner to advanced.
    • Key Highlights:
      • Hayes Creek Run: A 2.5-mile Black Diamond descent through rock gardens.
      • Miller’s Goat: A beginner-friendly 5.3-mile loop around the mountain with wide trails and gradual climbs, offering stunning views of the Arkansas River Valley.
      • Lizard Run: A challenging 1.8-mile advanced trail with technical rock gardens, punchy climbs, and sharp descents, great for seasoned riders.
    • Best For: Riders seeking trails with a mix of flow, technical challenges, and scenic overlooks.
    • Nearby Attractions: Explore Lake Dardanelle State Park for water sports or take a hike to Sunset Point for panoramic views.

Southwest Arkansas Mountain Biking Trails

10. Northwoods Trails – Hot Springs

  • Address: 300 Pineland Drive, Hot Springs, AR 71901
  • Trail Details:
    • Length: 15.7 miles of interconnected trails.
    • Difficulty: Beginner to advanced.
    • Key Highlights:
      • Mockingbird Trail: A beginner-friendly, short flow descent.
      • Waterworks Green: Blue mildly taxing climb with multiple switchbacks.
      • End of the Rainbow: A gnarly, handcut, Black Diamon single-track that is rugged and exposed.
      • Unique attributes include views of the surrounding Hot Springs area and well-maintained trails with directional signage.
    • Best For: Riders of all skill levels looking for variety and scenic views.
    • Nearby Attractions: Visit historic Bathhouse Row for a relaxing soak or explore Hot Springs National Park after your ride.

Hot Springs is the oldest federally designated reserve and one of the premier tourist destinations in Arkansas. For all the local tips and tricks, check out guide to Downtown Hot Springs.

Arkansas Mountain Biking-Final Words

man using an Arkansas mountain biking trail in the woods

We hope you enjoyed this list of epic Arkansas mountain biking trails. If your preferred method of travel is one two wheels, these ten trail systems are just the beginning of what the Natural State has to offer! So, pack your bug spray and rain jacket, the Arkansas trails are calling!

Get Our Monthly Educational Activity Guides to Traveling Arkansas
Get our Monthly Educational Activity Guides to Traveling Arkansas